Size of TV over fireplace

13 years ago

I realize there is always debate about the TV over the fireplace but we really don't mind the location. Unfortunately though our TV just broke so we are in the market for a new one. My question is, should I get another 60" like I have now or a 65"? I outlined the current TV in blue tape to show the dimensions of the 65". My concern is that maybe it would be too big and may overwhelm the space. I would love any opinions -- just please don't tell me that I should put it somewhere else in the room ;)

Featured Answer

victorianbungalowranch

13 years ago

I am probably in the minority, but I think the existing TV is a better size and if anything is a bit too big--it would look more in proportion if it isn't wider than the tile surround for the fireplace, and better if it is a bit narrower.

3 1/2 inches bigger around may not seem like a lot, but it is a big black box and is visually very heavy over your fireplace. The overmantel could help tie it in a bit, but it would still contrast with the black, emphasizing its size.

Bigger TVs also require a longer viewing distance, especially up so high.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (14)

User
13 years ago
Very little difference between the 2
lefty47
13 years ago
HI - Your OK with either as long as the TV is not wider than the mantel. If you had an over mantel built , it could be one that hides the TV . Lots of ideas on Houzz for that .
Related Professionals
Sebring Interior Designers & Decorators · Topeka Interior Designers & Decorators · Vicksburg Interior Designers & Decorators · Cincinnati Interior Designers & Decorators · Hackettstown Interior Designers & Decorators · Hobbs Interior Designers & Decorators · Las Vegas Interior Designers & Decorators · Fayetteville Architects & Building Designers · New Braunfels Architects & Building Designers · Farmington Architects & Building Designers · Las Cruces Architects & Building Designers · Kennewick Architects & Building Designers · Washington Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Amherst Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Butte Kitchen & Bathroom Designers
kmhbt
Original Author
13 years ago
I thought the same thing after I posted the pics :). In reality it's about 3-3 1/2" on each side bigger. I've just gotten such great guidance here in the past so I thought I'd see what the consensus was.
kmhbt
Original Author
13 years ago
I will definitely search for an "over mantel": I'm not sure what that is but it sounds like an ideas worth exploring. I was thinking at some point of adding trim pieces to the sides and if I did, the smaller TV may allow more room for trim. Of course my husband is of the mind that the bigger the TV the better ;)
User
13 years ago
Bigger one for sure.
kmhbt
Original Author
13 years ago
Thank you everyone. I know it seems minor, but I really do appreciate the input.
kmhbt
Original Author
13 years ago
My next question would be, if I frame around it (like the "Project In Tiburon"), what paint color would I use? I love the greenish gray they chose but with my granite around the fireplace being beige I don't think it would look right.
candyweaver
13 years ago
For looks and proportion, do not have your tv wider than the tile or granite around the fireplace opening.
kmhbt
Original Author
13 years ago
Hmmm...well the current one is the same size as the tile (maybe just slightly over).
kmhbt
Original Author
13 years ago
Is there anything I can do to make it look right?
andrew778
13 years ago
Bigger is always better in regards to tv's. You will never regret moving up.
sderico
13 years ago
Have you considered painting that wall a darker color so the TV doesn't overwhelm the space?
Elizabeth Starrs
10 years ago

Its probably way too late...but, consider the size of the fireplace "box" itself. Even your current TV is too big. It is "top heavy". Lots of folks do it....not saying you can't...but it will be more aesthetically pleasing if you actually scale the TV size down.